Mangaluru Airport celebrates Independence Day with patriotic fervor

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Aug 16, 2023: Independence Day 2023 was celebrated with great patriotic fervor and a dazzling display of cultural talent at the Mangaluru Airport on Tuesday. The day began with Mr Kishore Alva, President and Executive Director of the Adani Group paying floral tribute to the Martyr’s Memorial located at the Airport. A red carpet led to the memorial as Mr Alva, escorted by two smartly turned out CISF jawans, laid a beautiful flower wreath and saluted the memorial. Several other dignitaries too paid homage to the martyrs. The Indian National Flag was then hoisted at a specially laid out platform decked out with marquee tents draped with the tricolor. The guests and those present saluted the flag to the sound of the national anthem. A squad of jawans presented arms as the Chief Guest was welcomed with a flower bouquet.

 

 

 

In his keynote address, Mr Kishore Alva recalled the sacrifices, struggles and indomitable spirit that led India to break free from the shackles of colonial rule and emerge as a sovereign nation.  He paid tributes to the visionary leaders and freedom fighters and countless individuals who dedicated their lives to the task of Independence. He conveyed his special gratitude to all CISF personnel who were dedicating time to the protection of national assets and safeguarding us for the last 56 years. Today, if we’re travelling safely in flights, it is because of the CISF team, he said. Mr Alva also urged each and every citizen to contribute to the betterment of society by embracing the values of tolerance, compassion and unity that have been the corner stone of our nation. The young generation who are the torch bearers of tomorrow hold immense potential to shape the destiny of our nation, he noted. It is our responsibility to provide them with education, opportunity and guidance to help them lead us to a more enlightened future. Mr Alva said that he would like to put on record that Mangaluru is becoming a desired destination for the nation. As Mangalore International Airport stands second only to Bengaluru in the state it is an added feather in the cap for the Adani group and they would try to make it a state-of-the-art airport and the safest airport in the state. He concluded by saying that as we hoist the tricolor and sing the national anthem with pride let us stand united in the realization that the journey of a great nation is an ongoing one; we should be inspired by the sacrifices of the past and the potential of the future as we work hand in hand to create a prosperous and progressive India.

Colourful cultural events including dances synchronized to patriotic songs and impressive gymnastic routines presented by airline staff captivated the audience. The dog squad of the CISF along with its handlers gave a stunning display of their talents. The canine friends seemed almost human in their ability to understand commands given to them and co-operated well with the jawans.  The jawans themselves gave demonstrations of yoga and high security drills. Prizes were also distributed to winners of carom and volleyball events that were held in the run up to the Independence Day.